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This compact 5-day itinerary offers a well-rounded introduction to Sri Lanka’s cultural heart. From the sacred caves of Dambulla to the tea-scented highlands of Nuwara Eliya, this heritage escape is ideal for travellers short on time but eager for depth. Begin in Colombo, the lively capital, before travelling north to explore millennia-old civilisations, royal cities, and UNESCO-listed landmarks.
Along the way, climb the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, admire the cave murals of Dambulla, and witness spiritual rituals at Kandy’s Temple of the Tooth. The route then rises into the central highlands, where misty valleys and green carpets of tea unfold. In Nuwara Eliya, colonial charm blends with natural beauty, offering a peaceful interlude before circling back to Colombo for a brief city experience.
With guided visits, comfortable accommodations, and private transport, this itinerary strikes a balance between exploration and ease. It’s perfect for solo travellers, couples, and families seeking a taste of Sri Lanka’s heritage, with the flexibility to personalise the experience along the way.
On arrival in Colombo, meet your driver and begin your journey north to Dambulla. The landscape quickly shifts from bustling streets to stretches of green paddy fields, rural villages, and palm-dotted plains. Midway through the journey, stop for a refreshment or light local lunch (at own expense) before arriving in Dambulla in the afternoon.
Check in to your hotel and relax before visiting the famed Dambulla Cave Temple. Carved into a massive rock face, this UNESCO-listed site features five cave sanctuaries filled with golden Buddha statues and intricate murals dating back over 2,000 years. The panoramic view from the top is worth the gentle climb. The evening is yours to unwind or enjoy a quiet dinner at your hotel.
Accommodation: Hotel in Dambulla or Sigiriya
Start early with a visit to the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, often dubbed the “Eighth Wonder of the World.” This ancient citadel rises 200 metres above the jungle and features water gardens, frescoes, and a summit offering breathtaking views. The climb is moderately challenging but well worth the effort for those able.
Continue to Kandy via Matale, stopping to explore a spice garden where cinnamon, cardamom, and pepper grow in abundance. On arrival in Kandy, check into your hotel and later visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic—one of Sri Lanka’s most revered Buddhist shrines. Set beside a tranquil lake, the temple comes alive in the evenings with chanting and offerings.
Before dinner, enjoy a traditional cultural performance showcasing Kandyan dance, drumming, and fire acts—offering insight into the island’s artistic heritage.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Kandy
After breakfast, head into the hills toward Nuwara Eliya. En route, visit the Royal Botanic Gardens in Peradeniya, home to orchids, giant bamboo, and palms from around the world. The drive climbs steadily, passing lush tea estates, waterfalls, and misty valleys that define Sri Lanka’s central highlands.
Stop at a tea factory to see the tea-making process and enjoy a warm cup of freshly brewed Ceylon tea. Arrive in Nuwara Eliya—often referred to as “Little England”—and explore its colonial-era charm. Wander around Gregory Lake, take in the cool climate, and admire the rose gardens, golf course, and old English-style cottages that still dot the town.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Nuwara Eliya
Leave the hills behind and journey back to Colombo. The scenic descent takes you past fruit stalls, temples, and local villages. On arrival in Colombo, set out on a brief city tour covering some of the capital’s key highlights. Visit the Independence Memorial Hall, Gangaramaya Temple, and the Old Parliament building. If time permits, explore the vibrant Pettah Market or grab a coffee at one of Colombo’s chic cafés.
Colombo’s mix of old-world charm and modern energy offers a fitting finale to the trip. Spend the evening relaxing at your hotel or head out for a seafood dinner by the coast.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Colombo
After breakfast, transfer to the airport in time for your flight home or onward journey. From rock fortresses and sacred shrines to misty hills and colonial cities, this short escape covers a rich slice of Sri Lanka’s heritage.
Meals: Breakfast
Price & Availability
All bookings are subject to availability at the time of your request. Once we receive your booking enquiry, we’ll confirm availability within 24 hours.
Prices are quoted in Australian Dollars (AUD). If your package includes services priced in other currencies, currency conversion will be processed at midnight (AEST) each day. Please be aware that due to the constantly changing nature of exchange rates and supplier pricing, all package prices are subject to change until full payment is received and booking is confirmed.
Self-Guided Packages – Terms & Conditions
Our Self-Guided Packages are designed for travellers who want the freedom to explore independently, without the hassle of planning every detail. Each package follows a tried-and-tested itinerary that includes a combination of pre-booked services, such as accommodation and transport, and optional group tours or private experiences. You’ll have the flexibility to discover each destination at your own pace, with the confidence of having essential logistics taken care of and access to local support if needed.
Accommodation Flexibility
We understand that every traveller has different needs, so our itineraries offer flexibility in accommodation. You can choose from a range of hotels, from 3-star options to 4-star properties, in most locations. If your first-choice hotel is not available at the time of booking, we will offer you an alternative with a similar standard, quality, and location.
Travellers are welcome to customise their accommodation preferences before confirming their booking. If you’re unsure about the best options for your travel style, our team is happy to recommend alternatives.
Booking On Request
All packages are offered on a request basis. In most cases, a deposit may be required before we can secure accommodation and services.
Once we receive your deposit and booking enquiry, we aim to confirm your package within 24 hours (longer if weekends or public holidays apply).
If your preferred travel dates are not available, we’ll suggest the closest alternatives or offer a full refund of your deposit.
Dynamic Pricing
Many of our accommodation providers and local suppliers use dynamic pricing models, which means prices fluctuate depending on factors such as demand, travel seasons, and availability.
Our listed “from” prices represent the lowest available rates based on low-season travel with full availability. When you request a quote for your preferred travel dates, we’ll provide an accurate, up-to-date price based on availability at the time of quoting.
Prices may vary between the time we provide a quote and when you confirm your booking. Should there be any price differences, we will notify you before final confirmation and payment.
Itinerary Order & Availability
The order of your itinerary, including accommodation, tours, and transport, may be adjusted to secure the best availability and ensure a smooth travel experience. While we strive to follow the proposed itinerary as closely as possible, changes may be necessary, particularly during peak travel periods or when bookings are made close to your departure date.
For bookings made well in advance and outside of peak seasons, itinerary changes are uncommon. Any adjustments will be communicated to you in advance and are made with the aim of maintaining or improving the overall experience.
The final itinerary—including the order of your activities and accommodations—will be confirmed after your booking is secured.
Payment Terms
• A deposit may be required to secure your booking.
• Full payment is due no later than 45 days prior to your scheduled arrival date.
• If additional deposits are required by certain hotels or service providers, we will advise you at the time of confirmation.
• Your booking is not confirmed until full payment is received.
• Payments can be made via direct deposit, credit card, or other approved methods (merchant fees may apply).
Changes & Cancellations
• Your deposit is non-refundable once your booking is confirmed.
• Changes to your booking are permitted up to 45 days prior to departure, subject to availability and supplier approval. Additional fees may apply depending on the nature of the change.
• Cancellations within 45 days of arrival will incur a 100% cancellation fee, unless otherwise stated in your booking confirmation.
• Any rail tickets and flight tickets included in your package are non-refundable once issued and confirmed. These are subject to airline and supplier policies, which may include strict cancellation and amendment terms.
• We recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance at the time of booking to protect against unforeseen changes or cancellations.
Additional Information
• Please review visa requirements, health advice, and local regulations for your chosen destination prior to travel.
• We recommend allowing extra time for processing visas or travel documentation, especially during busy travel seasons.
• Travel insurance is strongly recommended for all bookings to cover unexpected events, including illness, cancellations, or delays.
If you’d rather chat, give one of our Travelcation Experts a call today to begin crafting your bespoke holiday experience.